Detection of parasites in canine feces at three off-leash dog parks in Portland, Oregon 2014.

Abstract

Gastrointestinal parasitism is common in dogs attending parks, with variable prevalences of parasites based on geographical region and demographic factors. In this study, canine fecal samples were opportunistically collected from three off-leash dog parks in Portland, Oregon and analyzed for parasites. While some similarities with previous research was seen, much higher rates of Giardia (25.6%) and Toxocara canis (8.67%) were identified in this study. Additional findings of unexpected parasites and those with zoonotic potential make these results significant.